There are income and financial supports that could be available to carers. This section provides links to services and information on financial support you may be eligible for.

Using Carer Gateway services will not affect any supports and services delivered through My Aged Care, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), or any other carer services or carer payments you may be receiving.

As a carer, there are a few things you should know about your tax.

We know that carers cope best when they have help and support. In Australia, there are many services and supports ready to help you and the person you care for. But we also know that many carers don’t ask for help.

Many carers find that they go through different ‘stages’ during their caring role. It’s useful to understand that these stages are normal, and you can get help at every stage.

It’s also useful to realise that you may go through some stages several times. Every caring situation is different.

Noticing changes

You may start your caring role by noticing something wrong with someone close to you. The changes may be physical or mental. You may notice changes happening quickly or over a long time. It might take some time to find out what’s wrong.

One of the roles of a carer is to speak up for someone who may not be able to speak for themselves, or who may need help in getting the help or services they need.

You can do this. You don’t have to know everything all at once. You can get help.

Once you have some of the key supports in place, it’s a good idea to look around and see what else you can do or think about to make your life easier – both now and in the future.

Here are a few things for you to explore. Remember that there are many people and organisations that can help you. Click on the links to find out more information about step.

If you have just started to care for someone, we know you will have many things to do and think about.

‘Respite’ or ‘respite care’ is when someone else takes care of the person you care for, so that you can have a break. A break can give you time to do everyday activities or to relax, deal with stress and look after yourself.

When you are a carer, it’s important to regularly take time for yourself to rest and recharge.

As a carer, you’ll often put the needs of the person you care for before your own needs. It’s OK to look after yourself too.